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Visa Overview

There are three general grounds for granting South African citizenship: Birth, Descent and Naturalization.

Citizenship by birth

Any person who is born in South Africa and who had at least one parent who was a South African citizen or South African permanent residence permit holder at the time of birth of the person or who was adopted by a South African citizen or permanent resident in terms of the Children’s Act, 2005, can apply for citizenship by birth.

As the spouse of a South African citizen (life partners are seen as spouses, too, if they can prove that they live together and are committed to each other and are not involved in any other relationship or still legally married), you qualify for permanent residence if / when the marriage or partnership has subsisted for at least 5 years. In the case of a life partnership it must be proven concretely that for at least 5 years you have lived together and shared financial commitments. 

Citizenship by descent

If you were born outside of South Africa to a South African citizen(s) or were adopted by a South African citizen in terms of the Children’s Act, 2005 and your birth was registered in accordance with the births and Deaths Registration Act,1992, you can apply for citizenship by descent.

Citizenship by naturalization

A Naturalisation may be applied for if the foreigner has lived in South Africa for 5 years on the basis of a valid permanent residence permit.

Refugee

You qualify for permanent residence if you have been a recognized refugee in South Africa for at least 5 years and have been issued with a Certification from the Standing Committee.

Frequently Asked Question

Explore your pathway to permanent residence in South Africa, with clear guidance on eligibility, requirements, and long-term benefits.

It gives you the full legal right to live, work, and vote in South Africa.

You can qualify through birth, descent, or naturalisation.

It applies to foreigners who have held permanent residence and lived in South Africa for at least five years.

Yes, but you must apply for permission before acquiring another nationality.

Yes, in most cases you must hold permanent residence before applying for citizenship.

Processing times vary, but it can take several months to over a year.

Yes, depending on eligibility, children may qualify through birth or descent.

You will need proof of identity, residence, eligibility, and supporting legal documents.

Yes, in certain cases such as fraud or loss of eligibility.

You gain full rights, including voting, working freely, and holding a South African passport.